While takeoff offers dramatic Icelandic volcanic scenery on the right, the landing approach into Gatwick on the left provides more sustained and varied views of the English landscape, North Downs, and Thames Valley—making the left side the better choice for the overall flight experience.
Flown KEF to LGW? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Keflavik to London is 1,203 miles (1,935 km), a flight of about 2 hours 55 minutes.
The flight path crosses the North Atlantic, passing south of the Faroe Islands (not typically visible) and north of Ireland. The mid-flight segment offers open ocean views with occasional cloud formations. As the aircraft approaches the UK, the Irish Sea becomes visible, followed by the Welsh coast and Snowdonia mountains (appearing as distant peaks on the horizon during descent). The flight then crosses central England, revealing the Midlands and eventually the Home Counties before approaching Gatwick from the west.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from KEF
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of Reykjanes Peninsula's dramatic coastline and geothermal features as the aircraft climbs out westward before turning southeast. The peninsula's volcanic terrain and Atlantic cliffs are striking during the initial climb.
Landing at LGW
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views during the descent approach into Gatwick, particularly of the North Downs ridge and the Thames Valley. As the aircraft descends on a westerly approach, the left side reveals the chalk escarpment and suburban London sprawl.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Keflavik Nas (KEF) to Gatwick (LGW)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Keflavik to London. While takeoff offers dramatic Icelandic volcanic scenery on the right, the landing approach into Gatwick on the left provides more sustained and varied views of the English landscape, North Downs, and Thames Valley—making the left side the better choice for the overall flight experience.
What can I see during takeoff from Keflavik Nas in Keflavik?
During takeoff from Keflavik Nas (KEF), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of Reykjanes Peninsula's dramatic coastline and geothermal features as the aircraft climbs out westward before turning southeast. The peninsula's volcanic terrain and Atlantic cliffs are striking during the initial climb. Notable sights include: Reykjanes Peninsula volcanic landscape, Atlantic coastline with sea cliffs, Kleifarvatn geothermal area, Fagradalsfjall volcanic region.
What can I see when landing at Gatwick in London?
When landing at Gatwick (LGW), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views during the descent approach into Gatwick, particularly of the North Downs ridge and the Thames Valley. As the aircraft descends on a westerly approach, the left side reveals the chalk escarpment and suburban London sprawl. Notable sights include: North Downs chalk ridge, Thames Valley, Greater London urban area, Surrey countryside and green belt.
How long is the flight from Keflavik to London?
The flight from Keflavik Nas (KEF) to Gatwick (LGW) takes about 2 hours 55 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,203 miles (1,935 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Keflavik to London flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the North Atlantic, passing south of the Faroe Islands (not typically visible) and north of Ireland. The mid-flight segment offers open ocean views with occasional cloud formations. As the aircraft approaches the UK, the Irish Sea becomes visible, followed by the Welsh coast and Snowdonia mountains (appearing as distant peaks on the horizon during descent). The flight then crosses central England, revealing the Midlands and eventually the Home Counties before approaching Gatwick from the west.